Atlas Shrugged

About Atlas Shrugged

'Atlas Shrugged' is a 2011 American Science Fiction drama film. The movie is based on Ayn Rand's novel of the same title which was published in 1957. It encapsulates Rand’s vision of a dystopian United States where leading innovators and industrialists are disappearing amidst a global economic collapse.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Paul Johansson and was the first installation in the Atlas Shrugged film series. The film's production faced several challenges. Initially unable to secure a big studio backing, the producers funded the film independently. The filming took place in Los Angeles, while the Colorado scenes were shot against blue-screen backgrounds.

Actors

• Taylor Schilling as Dagny Taggart - She portrayed the role of a steadfast woman who manages her family's railroad business. Her performance was hailed for its determination and resolve.
• Grant Bowler as Henry Rearden - Bowler played the role of a self-made steel magnate. His performance was appreciated for its depths and dimensions.
• Matthew Marsden as James Taggart - In the role of Dagny's brother, Matthew portrayed a contrast to Dagny's character, providing a counterpoint that added more depth to the plot.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Despite the film's underperformance, it was followed by two sequels in 2012 and 2014.
• The film was produced independently after years of development hell at large studios.
• The film was shot in 5 weeks.

Awards

No significant awards were won by the film.

Quotes

• "Who is John Galt?" - Repeated quote throughout the movie.
• "I swear by my life and my love of it that I will never live for the sake of another man, nor ask another man to live for mine." - Dagny Taggart.

Music, Soundtrack

• The music and soundtrack of the movie was composed by Elia Cmiral.
• The score was applauded for its tonal accompaniment to the narrative.